Water Safety

Water Skiing

Water skiing is a team sport that involves at least three people: one to drive the boat, one to act as a spotter and the skier. Each of these people should know how to swim. It is important for everyone who spends time in the water to be a strong swimmer. It's also very beneficial if each member of the team knows how to perform CPR.

The group will work together to make sure everyone has fun and remains safe at all times. The person piloting the boat should be experienced and knowledgeable about operating a vessel. No one without experience should ever attempt to tow someone behind their boat. Ideally, the spotters only job will be to watch the skier and to make sure they are okay. The skier should know how to signal for help if they find themselves in a precarious situation. When every team member understands how to participate and communicate in a safe manner, water skiing can be a thoroughly enjoyable activity.

Items to take

Water skiing involves some specific equipment - a fast boat, a tow line (a minimum of 75 feet long), skis, etc. There are other items that are also essential for any outing. All of the people in your group will need a life vest that fits them well. It is recommended to find vests that are approved by the US Coast Guard as they are proven to be effective. Other items that should be brought along are water proof sun screen to avoid painful burns, a first aid kit for minor injuries and a cell phone in case of emergency. Having these items along for every trip will help provide a safer experience.

Before you leave home

Prior to heading out to the water, examine all of your equipment to make sure it is in good working condition. Check the tow line to see if it is strong and shows no sign of fraying. Do not use any equipment until you are certain is in completely safe. You will also want to review a weather report to find out if conditions will be good for being on the water. If the weather is bad or a storm is approaching, it's best to wait for another day.

On the water

It is essential that your group work together for everyone's safety. Come up with some basic signals between the skier and the spotter to warn of trouble or relay problems. The driver of the boat should be certain that both the spotter and the skier are ready to go before starting the engine. This person has a huge responsibility - it is up to them to pilot the vessel in a safe manner so that the skier is able to follow along. They also have to be aware of other boats, skiers and swimmers. A good rule of thumb is to keep at least 300 feet away from other boats and 100 feet away from swimmers or docks.

If the skiers falls, the spotter should notice right away and alert the driver who will slowly turn the boat around and go back to where the person crashed. Once the boat is close to the skier, the captain should turn the engine off until the person is either in the boat, or ready to ski again.

Alcohol

One of the most important things for every person in the group to remember is that water sports and alcohol do not mix. It is not safe for anyone who is operating a boat, skiing behind the vessel or keeping an eye on the skier to be inebriated. Statistics have shown that alcohol is commonly a key factor in accidents and injuries on the water. Save the alcohol for later.

Many people enjoy the fast paced sport of water skiing. When you go out to ski, bring along the items you need to keep safe, people that you can rely on and prepare for a wonderful time.